Lieferando terminates 850 employees and is looking for freelancers!

Lieferando terminates 850 employees and is looking for freelancers!

Österreich - Lieferando has announced a fundamental change in its employment in Austria. From April 16, 2025, the company will switch its entire bicycle fleet to freelancers. This means that around 850 employees are released in Austria, reports 5 minutes . The decision to rely on free service contracts has caused a lot of sensation and criticism due to the massive dismissals in the workforce.

The switch to free employees who are not subject to the collective agreement takes place at the same time with an advertising campaign that appeals to potential new employees. In his advertising, Lieferando emphasizes that freelancers can choose their own schedule and have the opportunity to make additional money. From April 16 to June 30th you will receive 2 euros per successfully delivered order, an incentive that could address many.

Requirements and risks of free service contracts

The concept of the free service contract is not clearly defined in Austria. According to wko there is such a contract if someone offers their workforce against fee without personal dependency. Essential characteristics are the lack of instructions on working hours and location as well as the lack of integration into the operation of the client. As a result, free employees have no fixed income that depends on the number of orders.

The different types of service contracts differ considerably. While free employees are entitled to a fee regardless of the success of work, advertising residents are responsible for fulfilling a specific order. Unions and the Chamber of Labor are critical of the cuts of working conditions that become visible in this new model. Ludwig Dvořák from the Chamber of Labor expresses concerns that the competition is held on the back of the employees and warns of the need for fair rules.

labor law consequences

Labor law claims for free employees are limited and the legal regulations do not offer comprehensive protection. Termination periods and appointments apply in accordance with § 1159 ABGB, but can be observed in urgent cases without deadline. In addition, pregnant women do not have to be employed during the employment of employment and are entitled to a motive protection protection.

The switch to free service contracts and the associated terminations therefore raise not only economic, but also social and legal questions. Lieferando will surely be under observation in the coming time as to how these changes will affect the quality of the services and the satisfaction of the remaining and new employees.